Royal Shrovetide Football 2025 in England

Every year, the town of Ashbourne in Derbyshire, England, transforms into a massive playground for one of the world’s most unique sporting events: the Royal Shrovetide Football match. Unlike traditional football, this ancient game has no field, no specific teams, and barely any rules, yet it draws thousands of participants and spectators to the town. Dating back over 1,000 years, Shrovetide Football has survived through centuries as a cherished tradition that connects Ashbourne’s residents to their medieval roots.

When to see Shrovetide Football

Held annually on Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday, the game is played across the entirety of Ashbourne. The “goals,” located three miles apart at Clifton and Sturston, are the only fixed elements. The game begins each day when a ball is thrown into the crowd at Shawcroft Car Park, signaling the start of eight hours of intense action. The ball is intricately decorated by hand with the year’s designs, becoming a treasured keepsake for a goal-scorer. It is filled with Portuguese cork, so it won't sink in the river. Bigger than the traditional football, it isn't kicked by feet but rather thrown by hands.

This game is somewhat similar to rugby, the Ba' Game in Scotland and Lelo Burti in Georgia. It begins at 2 pm each day, and the match continues until 10 pm. Anyone who can compete for the ball can be a player.

Rules of the Game

Ashbourne’s Royal Shrovetide Football pits two sides—the Up’Ards and the Down’Ards—against each other. The team you belong to depends on whether you were born north or south of the town’s Henmore Brook. The game involves hundreds of players, known as “hug,” who work together to move the ball to their respective goal markers.

The rules are simple yet strict: no transportation of the ball in vehicles, no deliberate harm to others, and no play inside churchyards, cemeteries, or memorials. Unlike traditional football, the game has no referees, no timeouts, and no fixed boundaries—meaning shops, streets, and even the river become part of the action.

Ashbourne during Shrovetide

During Shrovetide, Ashbourne buzzes with energy as locals and visitors come together for the event. Shops board up windows, and car owners remove their parked vehicles. Streets fill with anticipation, and the town becomes a festive arena. Spectators line the streets or follow the players as the game meanders through the town. Even if you’re not playing, the camaraderie and chaos are thrilling to witness. Visitors can explore Ashbourne’s charming streets, enjoy traditional English pubs, and learn about the town’s history.

Historical Tradition

First recorded in the 12th century, this game has evolved while retaining its medieval spirit, with each ball bearing the name of the year’s turner-up, or person who starts the game. Ashbourne Royal Shrovetide Football isn’t just a game; it’s a cultural event steeped in history, community spirit, and unbridled excitement. Whether you’re a player or a spectator, the festival-like atmosphere and the tradition’s uniqueness make it a must-see experience for travelers seeking something truly extraordinary.